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Smalls Sliders, the Baton Rouge-founded burger franchise backed by NFL star Drew Brees, appointed a new CEO this month to lead the brand through its next phase of growth.
Charles Watson, former CEO of Tropical Smoothie Cafe, was named the new head of the fast-growing company founded by Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux’s Brandon Landry. Watson succeeds former Smalls Sliders CEO Maria Rivera who departed in March after leading the company since December 2022, when the sliders concept had just five units.
Before accepting his new role, Watson was at the helm of Tropical Smoothie Cafe for almost 15 years. He spearheaded the expansion of over 1,500 locations nationwide and tripled systemwide revenue to $1.42 billion. Prior to Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Watson led franchise growth and brand development strategies for multiple brands at Wyndham Hotels and IHG Hotels and Resorts.
“Charles is exactly the leader Smalls Sliders needs at this stage of our growth,” Landry said in a statement. “His proven ability to scale restaurant concepts while maintaining quality and culture is exceptional. What impressed me most is his genuine commitment to the success of both franchisees and team members—qualities that align perfectly with our brand’s values.”
Since its first location opened in 2019, Smalls Sliders has expanded with more than 375 cans open or under development across 30 states. Watson plans to strengthen franchisee support with training, operations, marketing and real estate.
“My focus is straightforward,” Watson said on Franchising.com. “Drive profitability for our franchise partners and expand strategically while keeping our commitment to local communities at the forefront.”
